Boracay has been named the fourth-best beach destination in Asia in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards, earning a score of 93.01 out of 100. El Nido in Palawan also made the list, placing 12th with a score of 84.84.
Located in Malay, Aklan, Boracay is best known for its White Beach, a four-kilometer stretch of powdery white sand and turquoise waters that has made the island one of the Philippines’ most celebrated tourist destinations. Beyond its beaches, the island attracts visitors with its spectacular sunsets, water sports, vibrant nightlife, and beachfront resorts.
The rankings, published on October 6, were based on ratings collected through the British edition of Condé Nast Traveller’s annual Readers’ Choice Awards survey. Boracay was the highest-ranked Philippine destination, securing a spot among Asia’s top five.
Sri Lanka’s Arugam Bay Beach claimed first place with a score of 98.84, followed by Thailand’s Railay Beach at 94.44 and Malaysia’s Coral Beach on Pangkor Island at 93.33.
El Nido, ranked 12th with a score of 84.84, was the only other Philippine destination included in Asia’s top 20. The Palawan destination is widely known for its towering limestone cliffs, turquoise lagoons, pristine beaches, and island-hopping attractions.
Condé Nast Traveller opened voting for its 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards on April 1 and closed the survey on June 30. Readers rated destinations and travel experiences on a five-point scale ranging from excellent to poor.
Boracay’s latest recognition adds to its long history of international tourism awards, eight years after the island underwent a six-month closure for environmental rehabilitation in 2018. Since reopening, the destination has continued welcoming domestic and international tourists while facing the ongoing challenge of balancing tourism growth with the protection of its beaches and coastal environment.
